Airbnb isn’t growing fast enough, says its CEO

Brian Chesky admits he’s frustrated — and wants to rebuild the company from the ground up

Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky said the company needs to reinvent itself by expanding into experiences, boutique hotels, and international markets to accelerate growth. After slowing to single-digit growth this year, Chesky expects new initiatives to drive stronger performance in 2026 and beyond.

Key takeaways

• Slower growth outlook: Airbnb expects only 8–10% growth in Q3, well below Chesky’s target of double-digit expansion.
• Experiences relaunch: The company is reintroducing its Experiences marketplace with more investment, offering services like private chefs, trainers, and massages.
• Hotels on platform: Airbnb will pilot listing boutique and independent hotels, targeting travelers who book hotels when homes aren’t available.
• Competitive commissions: European hotels are attracted by Airbnb’s 15.5% commission rate, which Chesky says is among the lowest in the industry.
• International expansion: With 70% of business concentrated in five markets, Airbnb aims to tap growth in underpenetrated countries worldwide.
• Reinvention strategy: Chesky envisions Airbnb evolving into a multi-business platform with 10–15 distinct offerings over time.

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